Pneumatic Flow Control Valves with Push-to-Connect Fittings
Pneuforce pneumatic flow control valves are designed to precisely control the speed of pneumatic cylinders and actuators in compressed air systems. Featuring integrated push-to-connect tube fittings, these compact speed controllers simplify installation while providing accurate and repeatable cylinder speed adjustment for industrial automation, packaging machinery, robotics and OEM equipment.
Flow controls are typically installed directly on the cylinder ports and are most commonly used in a meter-out configuration where exhaust air is restricted. This method provides smooth cylinder motion, improved positional control and reduced shock loading at the end of the cylinder stroke.
Download Flow Control Datasheet
Flow Control Valve Features
- Integrated push-to-connect fitting design
- Precise cylinder speed adjustment
- One-way flow restriction
- Free flow in the opposite direction
- Suitable for single and double acting cylinders
- Pressure range up to 150 PSI
- Vacuum service capability
- Compact installation directly on cylinder ports
- Available in inch and metric tube sizes
- Ideal for industrial automation systems
What Is a Pneumatic Flow Control Valve?
A pneumatic flow control valve regulates the flow rate of compressed air entering or leaving a pneumatic actuator. By controlling airflow, the speed of cylinder extension and retraction can be adjusted to achieve smooth machine operation and consistent cycle times.
Flow controls are among the most commonly used pneumatic components for controlling actuator movement in automation systems.
Flow Control vs Needle Valve
Although they appear similar, a pneumatic flow control valve is not the same as a needle valve. A needle valve restricts flow in both directions, while a pneumatic flow control contains an internal check valve that allows unrestricted flow in one direction and adjustable restriction in the other.
This one-way control is what makes pneumatic flow controls ideal for cylinder speed adjustment applications.
Meter-Out vs Meter-In Flow Control
Most pneumatic cylinders are controlled using a meter-out configuration where exhaust air leaving the cylinder is restricted. This provides smoother operation and better control, especially on double-acting cylinders.
Meter-in control restricts incoming air and is generally used only in specialized applications where cylinder loads and operating conditions permit.
Common Applications
- Pneumatic cylinder speed control
- Automation machinery
- Packaging equipment
- Robotics and cobots
- Assembly machinery
- Material handling systems
- Pick-and-place equipment
- Machine tools
- OEM equipment
- General compressed air systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pneumatic flow control valve?
A pneumatic flow control valve regulates compressed air flow to control the speed of pneumatic cylinders and actuators.
What is the difference between a flow control valve and a needle valve?
A flow control valve provides adjustable restriction in one direction and unrestricted flow in the opposite direction, while a needle valve restricts flow in both directions.
Where should a flow control valve be installed?
Flow controls are normally installed directly on the cylinder ports to provide the most effective cylinder speed control.
What is meter-out flow control?
Meter-out flow control restricts the exhaust air leaving the cylinder and is the most common method of pneumatic speed control.
What is meter-in flow control?
Meter-in flow control restricts incoming air entering the cylinder and is used in specialized applications where operating conditions permit.
Why is meter-out control preferred?
Meter-out control provides smoother cylinder motion, better positional stability and reduced end-of-stroke shock compared with meter-in control.
Can flow controls be used with single acting cylinders?
Yes. Pneumatic flow controls can be used on both single acting and double acting cylinders depending on the application requirements.
Do flow controls work with vacuum systems?
Yes. These models are rated for vacuum service and can be used in vacuum applications within their specified operating range.
What tube sizes are available?
Flow controls are available with both inch and metric push-to-connect tube connections to match common pneumatic tubing sizes.
How do I adjust cylinder speed?
Cylinder speed is adjusted by turning the flow control adjustment screw to increase or decrease the amount of airflow restriction.
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